BLOG The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Tile Grout with Summit Tile Installation Oct 03, 2025

Choosing the right tile grout for your home or business is more than just a finishing touch—it's a crucial component in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your tiled surfaces. At Summit Tile Installation, we understand that selecting the perfect grout can feel overwhelming with so many options available. That's why we've created this ultimate guide to help you make an informed decision.

First, let's discuss why grout is essential. Grout serves as the necessary filler between tiles, helping to prevent moisture from seeping beneath them. It also enhances the overall strength of your tiled surfaces, providing stability and durability. A well-chosen grout can elevate the visual appeal of your tiles, complementing or contrasting as per your design vision.

When considering grout, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is between sanded and unsanded varieties. Sanded grout, with its gritty texture, is best suited for flooring and wider tile joints, typically more than 1/8 inch. It provides greater strength and prevents shrinkage, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Unsanded grout, on the other hand, is smoother and ideal for narrower joints, under 1/8 inch, such as those found on walls or in delicate tile installations like glass or marble.

Color is another critical consideration when choosing grout. The right color can either blend seamlessly with your tiles or create a striking contrast, allowing your tiles to stand out. Neutral tones like grey and beige are popular for their versatility, while bolder colors can make a unique design statement. At Summit Tile Installation, we recommend obtaining grout color samples to compare them against your tiles in different lighting scenarios. This helps ensure that the grout appears just right with your chosen tile style and design.

Furthermore, consider the environment where the tiles are being installed. For areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens, it's wise to opt for a waterproof or stain-resistant grout. Epoxy grout is renowned for its resistance to water and stains, making it particularly suitable for wet areas. Though slightly more challenging to apply, the durability and low-maintenance properties of epoxy grout can be highly beneficial in such environments.

Maintenance requirements of grout should not be overlooked. Some types of grout may require sealing post-installation to protect against water and stains. This might seem like an added task, but for spaces like showers or kitchen backsplashes where spills and splashes are common, it’s an investment worth considering. Sealing your grout can significantly extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance.

Finally, as with any aspect of home improvement, considering professional advice can make a significant difference. At Summit Tile Installation, our team of experts is always ready to provide guidance tailored to your specific projects. From selecting the correct type of grout to matching colors perfectly with your tiles, professional insights can relieve much of the stress that comes with home improvement tasks.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect grout involves a blend of aesthetic preference and practical considerations. By understanding the types of grout available, considering color options, and assessing your specific environment and maintenance needs, you can make informed decisions that enhance both the durability and appearance of your tiled surfaces. At Summit Tile Installation, we're here to ensure your tiling projects achieve the perfect finish, every time.